Review of Don't Look Now (1936) by Michael C — 07 Jul 2010

Classic British film that is somewhat of a supernatural horror film, but probably better classified as a unique and bizarre thriller. At the very least the horrific moments in the film are much more cerebral than gore-intensive, which tends to be more frightening.

The film has the naturalistic feel a lot of British movies of the time have, and the way Roeg handles the editing and transitions seem very piercing and sharp. It's not a documentary style, but it is not really filmed in a typical cinematic sense either, so it kind of feels as if the technique is somewhere in between.

The central story involves a couple (a delightfully uncomfortable and jarred Donald Sutherland, which seemed to be a common but very fitting role from him in several 70's films, and Julie Christie, looking as beautiful as always and as usual putting in a strong performance) who have recently lost their daughter in a drowning.

A blind psychic woman informs them that their child is alive and that Sutherland's character is in danger, and from there the film really utilizes the unnerving tone of the film. Much like Roman Polanski's "Rosemary's Baby", each supporting actor in the film delivers a performance that makes you feel as if they are in on something, and you never get the impression anyone can really be trusted outside the couple.

The film rarely attempts to jump out and shock you, save for maybe the ending, but just keeps a consistent tone that is unsettling and holds it reasonably well for the length of the film. The ending, while unexpected, has aged though.

While it was considered inspired and menacing in its time, there is something slightly laughable about it now. Still for most of the film the movie does a pitch-perfect job of sharpening the tension within the viewer.